Morganton, NC demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
17,646
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,355/yr
3.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,547
3.0% year-over-year change

Morganton population

How many people live in Morganton

Morganton is home to 17,646 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Morganton locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
17,646
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
8,614
Female
51.2%
9,032
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,614 48.8% 1.9%
Female 9,032 51.2% -0.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Morganton is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.1% are children under 15, then 12.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.7% of the population, while another 20.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.1%
15 to 24
12.1%
25 to 44
25.7%
45 to 64
20.2%
Over 65
22%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,542 20.1% -3.3%
15 to 24 2,135 12.1% -4.8%
25 to 44 4,529 25.7% 5.9%
45 to 64 3,566 20.2% -3.5%
Over 65 3,874 22% 5.7%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Morganton, 87.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60.4% of locals are Caucasian, 14.8% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.5%
Non-citizens
6.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 15,474 87.7% 2.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 978 5.5% 8.4%
Non-citizens 1,194 6.8% -23.5%
Racial breakdown
White
60.4%
Black or African American
14.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.8%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
12.4%
Value Percent
White 10,654 60.4%
Black or African American 2,611 14.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 493 2.8%
Asian 238 1.4%
Two or more races 1,468 8.3%
Other 2,182 12.4%

Households in Morganton

A peek inside Morganton households

Morganton has 6,888 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.4% are families, while the remaining 35.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,888
3.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,450
Family households
4,438
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,450 35.6% 6.7%
Family households 4,438 64.4% 1.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Morganton

The housing landscape of Morganton

Morganton's housing consists of 7,547 units, with 60% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.4% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 6.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,547
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,530 60%
1 unit, attached 185 2.4%
2 units 629 8.3%
3 or 4 units 458 6.1%
5 to 9 units 700 9.3%
10 to 19 units 131 1.7%
20 to 49 units 258 3.4%
50 or more units 144 1.9%
Mobile home 512 6.8%
Homes built since 2020
242
103.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Morganton

In Morganton, the median construction year is 1976. About 12.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 959 12.7% -1.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 609 8.1% -7.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 552 7.3% -6.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 990 13.1% -13.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,178 15.6% -3.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,448 19.2% 10.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 825 10.9% 9.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 406 5.4% 65.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 338 4.5% 6.6%
Built in 2020 or later 242 3.2% 103.4%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Morganton occupancy rates

Out of the 6,888 occupied housing units in Morganton, 54.7% are owner-occupied, while 45.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,888
3.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,122
Owner occupied
3,766
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,122 45.3% -3.0%
Owner occupied 3,766 54.7% 8.8%
Unoccupied housing units
8.7%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Morganton housing costs

Housing costs in Morganton come to a median of $958 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $944.

Median housing costs per month
$958/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Morganton
$944/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Morganton

Morganton education at a glance

About 37.4% of the population in Morganton went to high school, while 17.3% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 16% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,101 8.2% -33.4%
High school diploma 4,988 37.4% 5.0%
College diploma 2,303 17.3% -6.0%
Associate degree 1,573 11.8% 7.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,132 16% 32.3%
Graduate degree 1,249 9.4% 5.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Morganton

How much people earn in Morganton

The average annual household income in Morganton was $72,877 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,355, reflecting a +3.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Morganton
$72,877/year
5.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Morganton
$51,355/year
3.9% year-over-year change

Morganton income by age

In Morganton, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $52,390. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $55,584 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $21,384, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $50,069 in earnings. Overall, 74.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $21,384 13.4%
25 - 44 $52,390 5.0%
45 - 64 $55,584 -2.4%
Over 65 $50,069 2.2%
Above poverty level
12,447
Below poverty level
4,331
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 12,447 74.2% 7.1%
Below poverty level 4,331 25.8% -12.2%

Average renter income in Morganton

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Morganton, their median household income was $26,835 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$26,835
Rent-to-income ratio
42.2%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Morganton

Workforce and job types in Morganton

The job market in Morganton is powered by 7,528 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.2% run their own businesses, 62.3% are employed by private companies, and 16.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,528
2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
5,054
Blue collar
2,474
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,054 67.1% 8.4%
Blue collar 2,474 32.9% -8.2%
Employer type
Self employees
10.2%
Private companies
62.3%
Governmental workers
16.8%
Not for profit companies
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 766 10.2% 10.5%
Private companies 4,693 62.3% -4.6%
Governmental workers 1,265 16.8% 6.8%
Not for profit companies 804 10.7% 43.6%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
9.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Morganton stands at 3.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Morganton

How people get around in Morganton

In Morganton, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
-8.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,740 90.5% 1.8%
Walk 30 0.4% 36.4%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Morganton by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
28655 55,100 22,219 $57,713 $76,064

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FAQs about Morganton demographics 

What is the total population of Morganton?

Morganton has a total population of 17,646 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Morganton?

The gender ratio in Morganton is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (8,614 residents)
  • 51.2% females (9,032 residents)

What is the median age in Morganton?

The median age in Morganton is 37.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Morganton?

The age distribution in Morganton is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.1% (3,542 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.1% (2,135 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.7% (4,529 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.2% (3,566 residents)
  • Over 65: 22% (3,874 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Morganton?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Morganton is as follows:
  • White: 60.4% (10,654 residents)
  • Black or African American: 14.8% (2,611 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.8% (493 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (238 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (1,468 residents)
  • Other: 12.4% (2,182 residents)

What percentage of the population in Morganton are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.7% of the population in Morganton.

How many housing units are there in Morganton?

There are 7,547 housing units in Morganton, reflecting a +3.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Morganton and what is the average household size?

Morganton has a total of 6,888 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Morganton?

Morganton has a median household income of $51,355, representing a +3.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Morganton?

The employment rate is 96.2% in Morganton, with a workforce of 7,528 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.1% (5,054 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.9% (2,474 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.2% (766 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.3% (4,693 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.8% (1,265 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.7% (804 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025